Here in the Noatak National Preserve there is ample solitude and room to roam. The only trails in the area are those made by passing caribou. There are no campgrounds, no other hikers, and probably not even any footprints on our route through the mountains. We trade the noise of civilization for 24 hour daylight, long vistas, quiet canyons, and the possibility of wildlife around every corner.

The Baird Mountains lie between the Noatak and Kobuk rivers and are nearly unexplored by backpackers. Join us on this new route and discover the beauty of an Alaska Backpacking trip this summer.

We’ll travel just over 30 miles in eight days. The route is an easy one in terms of elevation gain and the terrain covered, but there will be some long days and we’ll need to cross creeks and potentially even snow from time to time.

Starting high on a mesa -like ridge near the crest of the range our route winds westward crossing several small passes and ultimately ending in the headwaters of the Agashashok (“Agi”) River. The walking is pretty good, though the rocks are loose underfoot in places.There are limestone canyons to negotiate, and rivers to ford. In return for the hard work of Alaska backpacking, we enjoy rugged colorful peaks, soft green valleys, and (if lucky) abundant wildlife.

Hiking in the arctic is an “off-trail” experience, so a six-mile day can take as long and be as taxing as ten miles in other parts of the world. Experience backpacking is recommended for this trip, but novices in good shape, who are willing to do some training, would enjoy the trip too. Each hiker will carry 15-20 pounds of food and community gear in addition to personal gear; due to the small group size and the trip’s duration, expect to start the trip with a pack weighing no less than 45 pounds.